Lake Alpine Recreation Area
Travelers who make their way to scenic Murphys looking to spend as much time as possible in the great outdoors won’t want to miss out on adding Lake Alpine to their itinerary. This beautiful reservoir is easy to access just east of Bear Valley on State Highway 4. The reservoir sits within a granite basin and when you visit, you’ll find yourself immersed in a space dotted with lodgepole pine trees and red firs alike. The lake sits at an impressive elevation of 7,350 feet and is as eye-catching to admire as it is fun to adventure through and around. Because the lake is formed by snow melt, the water remains cool well into summer making that the very best season to adventure this way. While many visitors spend ample time at the recreation area of the lake, the Visitors Center is found at 753 South Main Street in Angels Camp.
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Activities to Enjoy
Lake Alpine is regularly stocked with trout so if you’re someone with a passion for casting a line, this is a great place to spend time fishing. In total, you’ll have 180 surface acres to discover with the average depth of the water lingering around 40 feet. You’ll want to be sure you have your California fishing license in place before you head out which is easy to acquire online through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Beyond fishing, many visitors come to Lake Alpine to enjoy hiking and biking the trails as well as low-speed boating. If you do bring your boat along for a day on the water, it’s good to keep in mind the maximum speed is 10 mph. Picnicking is just as enjoyable at Lake Alpine while winter visitors can add activities like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling to their to-do list.
Amenities On-Site
When you visit Lake Alpine, you’ll have easy access to interpretive sites as well as a boat ramp, camping areas, picnic tables, restrooms, drinking water, and convenient parking options. There’s also on-site dining in the way of a restaurant and general store. If you’re looking to get out on the water, you can rent paddleboards and kayaks from Bear Valley Cross Country & Adventure Company which serves Lake Alpine.
Hikes to Try
For those who love to lace up their boots and hit the trails, the routes surrounding Lake Alpine never disappoint. There’s a 4-mile pathway to explore that winds its way around the lake to Inspiration Point where you can savor the views at your own preferred pace. If you’re hanging out around the southeast end of the lake, there’s also a 2-mile trek to enjoy that links Lake Alpine and Duck Lake with great wildlife watching and wildflowers to admire along the way in the spring and early summer.
Book Your Getaway in Style Today
Lake Alpine is just 12 minutes from Courtwood Inn when you take French Gulch Road and Murphys Grade Road. Guests who book a stay with us will find their travel experience is immersed in luxury, comfort, and style and provides easy access to the places you can’t wait to explore as well! Reach out today to learn more and to start planning your next exciting trip to Murphys. We can’t wait to see you in sunny California soon.
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